[Campbell Biology P.710] Based on the provided text, which of the following is a correct com... | Practice Question

Based on the provided text, which of the following is a correct comparison regarding the flagellated spores and cell walls of Cryptomycetes, Microsporidians, and Chytrids?

  • A: Cryptomycetes and Chytrids have flagellated spores, while Microsporidians lack them; all three groups synthesize chitin-rich cell walls.
  • B: All three groups possess flagellated spores and chitin-rich cell walls.
  • C: Only Chytrids have flagellated spores, but all three groups have chitin-rich cell walls.
  • D: Microsporidians uniquely possess flagellated spores, while Cryptomycetes and Chytrids do not; only Chytrids and Microsporidians have chitin-rich cell walls.

Explanation

The text states that 'Cryptomycetes are unicellular and have flagellated spores.' and 'Nearly all chytrids have flagellated spores, called zoospores'. It also states 'Unlike other basal fungi, microsporidians lack flagellated spores'. For cell walls, the text mentions 'Cryptomycetes also can synthesize a chitin-rich cell wall', 'Like all fungi, microsporidians can synthesize a chitin-rich cell wall', and 'Like other fungi, chytrids have cell walls made of chitin'. Therefore, Cryptomycetes and Chytrids have flagellated spores, Microsporidians do not, and all three have chitin-rich cell walls.